Private Dentist Prices UK: What Common Treatments Cost

Private dental prices in the UK can be confusing. One clinic may charge £70 for a check-up, another may charge £150. A filling might cost £120 in one town and £300 in another. A crown can be £500 at one practice and more than £1,200 at a cosmetic or specialist clinic.

This can make it difficult to know whether a quote is reasonable, what you are actually paying for, and whether you should wait for NHS treatment, go private, use a dental plan or get a second opinion.

This guide explains typical private dentist prices in the UK, what common treatments cost, how private prices compare with NHS dental charges, why fees vary so much, and what questions to ask before agreeing to treatment.

If you are comparing NHS and private care more broadly, read our guide to NHS dentist vs private dentist. For specific treatments, you may also find our guides to toothache, root canal treatment, dental implants in the UK, composite bonding and veneers in the UK useful.

Why private dental prices matter more than ever

Many people look at private dentistry because they cannot find an NHS dentist, want shorter waiting times, need treatment that is not available on the NHS, or want more choice over materials, appearance and appointment length.

Private dentistry can offer advantages: more time with the dentist, a wider choice of cosmetic options, more flexible appointments, additional materials, specialist referrals and clearer treatment choices. But it can also be expensive, and prices are not standardised nationally.

The Competition and Markets Authority announced a review of private dentistry in 2026 after concerns about rising costs, pricing transparency and access to NHS care. You can read more about the review on the UK Government website.

That does not mean private dentistry is bad. It means patients should understand what they are paying for, compare quotes carefully and ask clear questions before treatment starts.

NHS dental charges vs private dental prices

NHS dental treatment in England uses fixed charge bands. From 1 April 2026, NHS England lists the following charges:

• Band 1: £27.90
• Band 2: £76.60
• Band 3: £332.10
• Urgent dental treatment: £27.90

Band 1 covers examination, diagnosis, advice, X-rays if needed, preventive advice and a scale and polish if clinically necessary. Band 2 includes Band 1 plus treatment such as fillings, root canal treatment and extractions. Band 3 includes Bands 1 and 2 plus more complex work such as crowns, dentures and bridges. You can check the latest information on the NHS dental costs page.

Private dentistry is different. There are no national fixed bands. Each clinic sets its own fees, and the cost depends on the treatment, materials, appointment time, location, complexity and clinician.

Is private dentistry always more expensive than NHS dentistry?

Usually, yes. For clinically necessary treatment, NHS dentistry is often much cheaper for the patient if you can access it. For example, an NHS Band 2 course can include fillings, root canal treatment or extractions for one fixed charge. A private root canal alone may cost several hundred pounds.

However, NHS and private dentistry are not always like-for-like. Private treatment may involve:

• Longer appointment times.
• More aesthetic materials.
• Choice of white fillings on back teeth where private options are preferred.
• More advanced crowns, ceramics or laboratory work.
• Cosmetic treatment not available on the NHS.
• Implants, whitening, composite bonding or veneers.
• Specialist care or referral-level treatment.
• More flexible appointment times.

The question is not simply “which is cheaper?” The better question is: “What treatment do I need, what are my options, what is included, and what outcome am I paying for?”

Typical private dentist prices in the UK

The table below gives broad UK private price ranges for common dental treatments. These are guide prices only. Fees can be lower or higher depending on where you live, the clinic, the dentist, materials and complexity.

Private dental check-up cost

A private dental check-up commonly costs around £40 to £150+. A new patient consultation is often more expensive than a routine review because the dentist needs more time to assess your teeth, gums, jaw, medical history and treatment needs.

A private check-up may include:

• Examination of teeth and gums.
• Oral cancer screening.
• Bite assessment.
• Discussion of symptoms.
• Basic X-rays, depending on the clinic.
• Treatment plan and quote.

Ask whether X-rays are included. Some clinics include routine X-rays in the consultation fee, while others charge separately.

Private emergency dentist cost

A private emergency dental appointment often costs around £60 to £200+ for the appointment itself. Treatment may cost extra.

For example, you may pay for:

• Emergency consultation.
• X-rays.
• Temporary filling.
• Drainage of infection.
• Extraction.
• Prescription, if clinically appropriate.
• Follow-up appointment.

If you have severe toothache, swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or a dental abscess, read our guide to dental emergencies. For life-threatening symptoms such as swelling affecting breathing or swallowing, call 999.

Private filling cost

Private fillings often cost around £100 to £350+, depending on size, material and tooth position.

A small front tooth repair may be relatively affordable. A large white filling on a back tooth can cost significantly more because it takes longer and must withstand stronger chewing forces.

Private fillings may be priced by:

• Small, medium or large size.
• Front tooth or back tooth.
• White composite or amalgam.
• Complexity of the cavity.
• Whether an old filling must be removed.
• Whether a protective liner or rebuild is needed.

If the tooth is heavily broken down, a filling may not be strong enough. Your dentist may discuss an onlay or crown instead.

Private hygienist cost

Private hygienist appointments commonly cost around £60 to £150+. A basic scale and polish is usually cheaper than longer gum treatment appointments.

Some clinics charge based on appointment length:

• 20 minutes for light cleaning.
• 30 minutes for routine hygiene.
• 45 to 60 minutes for heavier build-up or gum care.

Airflow polishing, periodontal charting, deep cleaning or treatment for gum disease may cost extra.

If your gums bleed or you have been told you have gum disease, read our guide to bleeding gums and gum disease.

Private tooth extraction cost

A simple private tooth extraction often costs around £100 to £350+. Surgical extractions, impacted teeth or wisdom tooth removal can cost around £250 to £600+ or more.

The cost depends on:

• Whether the tooth is visible or impacted.
• Whether the tooth is broken down.
• Whether surgical access is needed.
• Whether stitches are needed.
• Whether sedation is used.
• Whether the case needs referral to an oral surgeon.

Before agreeing to extraction, ask whether the tooth can be saved and what replacement options may be needed afterwards.

Private root canal cost

Private root canal treatment usually costs more than a filling because it takes longer, requires more technical work and depends heavily on tooth anatomy.

Typical private root canal costs may be:

• Front tooth: around £300 to £600+
• Premolar: around £400 to £800+
• Molar: around £600 to £1,100+

Specialist endodontic treatment may cost more, especially for retreatment, curved canals, complex anatomy, posts, perforations or previous failed root canal treatment.

After root canal treatment, a crown may be recommended for a back tooth, especially if it is heavily filled or weakened. That means the total cost may include both root canal treatment and a crown.

Read more in our full guide: Root Canal Treatment Explained.

Private crown cost

Private crowns commonly cost around £500 to £1,200+ per tooth.

A crown may be recommended when a tooth is badly broken, heavily filled, root-filled, cracked or too weak for a normal filling.

Crown prices depend on:

• Material, such as metal, porcelain-bonded, zirconia or ceramic.
• Front tooth vs back tooth.
• Laboratory quality.
• Whether a post or core build-up is needed.
• Whether temporary crowns are included.
• Cosmetic complexity.
• Whether treatment is provided by a specialist or referral clinic.

Crowns are not cosmetic veneers. They cover much more of the tooth and usually involve more tooth preparation.

Private bridge cost

Dental bridges commonly cost around £700 to £2,500+, depending on the number of units and materials.

A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by attaching replacement teeth to neighbouring teeth or implants. A simple adhesive bridge may cost less than a multi-unit ceramic bridge.

Ask whether the quote is per unit. A “three-unit bridge” replaces one missing tooth using two supporting teeth, so the total cost may be three times the per-unit fee.

Private denture cost

Private dentures commonly cost around £500 to £2,500+, depending on whether they are partial or full, acrylic or chrome, standard or premium.

Common denture types include:

• Acrylic dentures: often cheaper and easier to adjust.
• Chrome dentures: usually thinner, stronger and more stable, but more expensive.
• Flexible dentures: sometimes used for comfort or appearance in selected cases.
• Implant-retained dentures: more stable but much more expensive because implants are involved.

Dentures can be a good alternative to implants, especially when surgery, budget or bone loss makes implants less suitable.

Private teeth whitening cost

Professional teeth whitening in the UK commonly costs around £250 to £700+. It is usually private cosmetic treatment.

Whitening may involve custom trays and dentist-prescribed gel, in-chair whitening, or a combination of both. Whitening must be provided legally and safely by a registered dental professional or under their direction.

If you are considering whitening, read: Teeth Whitening in the UK: Options, Safety and Costs.

Private composite bonding cost

Composite bonding commonly costs around £150 to £500 per tooth. Simple edge bonding is usually cheaper than full cosmetic reshaping.

Composite bonding is often used for:

• Small chips.
• Worn edges.
• Minor gaps.
• Uneven tooth shapes.
• Small cosmetic improvements.

It is usually cheaper and less invasive than porcelain veneers, but it stains and chips more easily. Read our detailed guide: Composite Bonding in the UK.

Private veneer cost

Veneer costs depend on whether you choose composite or porcelain.

• Composite veneers: often around £250 to £600+ per tooth.
• Porcelain veneers: often around £600 to £1,200+ per tooth.

Porcelain veneers usually cost more because they involve laboratory work, ceramic materials and multiple appointments. Composite veneers are usually cheaper and easier to repair but need more maintenance.

Veneers are usually cosmetic and private. Read our full guide: Veneers in the UK: Composite vs Porcelain, Cost and Risks.

Private dental implant cost

A single dental implant with crown in the UK commonly costs around £2,000 to £3,500+. Complex cases can cost more, especially if bone grafting, sinus lifts, temporary teeth or multiple implants are needed.

Implant quotes may include:

• Consultation.
• 3D scan.
• Implant fixture.
• Abutment.
• Final crown.
• Temporary tooth.
• Bone grafting, if needed.
• Review appointments.

Always check what is included. Some clinics advertise an implant price that does not include the final crown or scan. For a detailed guide, read: Dental Implants in the UK: Costs, Procedure, Risks and Alternatives.

Private braces and clear aligner cost

Private orthodontic treatment commonly costs around £1,500 to £5,500+. Simple cosmetic alignment may cost less, while comprehensive treatment with fixed braces, clear aligners or specialist orthodontic care may cost more.

Costs depend on:

• Complexity of tooth movement.
• Fixed braces vs clear aligners.
• Treatment length.
• Number of aligners or appointments.
• Whether retainers are included.
• Whether treatment is provided by a specialist orthodontist.

Ask whether retainers and refinement aligners are included. Retainers are essential after orthodontic treatment to help stop teeth moving back.

Private mouthguard and night guard cost

Custom sports mouthguards often cost around £80 to £200+. Night guards for grinding or clenching often cost around £150 to £500+.

A custom dental guard usually fits better than a shop-bought guard. If you grind heavily, your dentist may recommend a stronger or more specialised appliance.

Private sedation cost

Dental sedation often costs around £150 to £500+ per session, depending on the type of sedation, appointment length and clinician.

Sedation may be used for nervous patients, complex extractions, implant surgery or longer procedures. It is usually charged separately from the dental treatment itself.

What affects private dental prices?

Private dental prices vary because dentistry is not one-size-fits-all. The same treatment name can mean very different clinical situations.

Factors that affect price include:

• Location: London and major city clinics often charge more.
• Complexity: a small filling is not the same as rebuilding a broken tooth.
• Time: longer appointments cost more.
• Materials: premium ceramics, composites and implant systems cost more.
• Laboratory work: crowns, bridges, dentures and veneers involve technician fees.
• Dentist experience: specialist or referral-level treatment usually costs more.
• Technology: digital scans, 3D imaging and guided surgery may add cost.
• Aftercare: good follow-up may be included or charged separately.
• Urgency: same-day or out-of-hours appointments may cost more.

Why a cheap dental quote is not always the best value

Everyone wants fair pricing, but the cheapest quote is not always the best value. A low price may be perfectly reasonable for a simple treatment, but it may also exclude important parts of care.

A cheap quote may not include:

• X-rays.
• 3D scans.
• Temporary crowns or teeth.
• Laboratory fees.
• Review appointments.
• Repair guarantees.
• Hygiene preparation.
• Night guards.
• Complexity fees.

On the other hand, a high price is not automatically better. Ask what is included, why the treatment is needed, and whether there are reasonable alternatives.

How to compare private dental quotes

When comparing quotes, do not only compare the final number. Compare the diagnosis, materials, time, clinician experience, aftercare and risks.

Ask each clinic:

• What exactly is included in the quote?
• What could cost extra?
• How many appointments are included?
• Are X-rays or scans included?
• What material will be used?
• Who will carry out the treatment?
• What are the alternatives?
• What happens if the treatment fails?
• Is aftercare included?
• Will I get a written treatment plan?

If a quote is for major treatment, such as multiple crowns, veneers, implants or full-mouth work, it is reasonable to get a second opinion before committing.

Should you ask for a written treatment plan?

Yes. For private dental treatment, especially anything beyond a simple check-up or small filling, ask for a written treatment plan.

A good treatment plan should include:

• Your diagnosis.
• Recommended treatment.
• Alternative options.
• Benefits and risks.
• Number of appointments.
• Fees for each stage.
• What is included.
• What is excluded.
• Maintenance needs.
• What happens if you decide not to proceed.

Questions to ask before paying for private dental treatment

Before agreeing to private dental treatment, ask:

• Is this treatment clinically necessary or cosmetic?
• Is there an NHS option?
• What happens if I delay treatment?
• What are the alternatives?
• What are the risks?
• How long should the treatment last?
• Will it need maintenance?
• What happens if it chips, breaks or fails?
• Can I spread the cost?
• Can I have time to think before deciding?

Private dental payment plans

Many private dental practices offer monthly membership plans. These usually cover routine check-ups and hygiene appointments, and may provide discounts on other treatments.

A dental plan may include:

• One or two check-ups per year.
• Hygienist appointments.
• Routine X-rays.
• Emergency appointment discount.
• Treatment discount.
• Worldwide dental trauma or emergency cover, depending on the plan.

Dental plans can be useful if you attend regularly and want predictable routine costs. They may not be good value if you rarely attend or if major treatment is excluded.

Dental finance and 0% payment options

Some clinics offer finance for larger treatments such as implants, veneers, orthodontics or full-mouth rehabilitation.

Before using finance, check:

• Total amount repayable.
• Interest rate.
• Length of agreement.
• Monthly payment.
• Whether the finance is truly 0%.
• What happens if treatment changes midway.
• Whether you can repay early.

Do not let finance make you feel pressured into treatment. Cosmetic dentistry should be considered carefully, especially if it involves drilling healthy teeth.

Dental insurance: is it worth it?

Dental insurance may help with routine care or contribute towards treatment, but policies vary widely.

Check:

• Annual limits.
• Waiting periods.
• Exclusions for pre-existing problems.
• Whether cosmetic treatment is excluded.
• How much is reimbursed per treatment.
• Whether NHS and private treatment are covered differently.
• Whether emergency treatment is included.

Insurance may help with predictable costs, but it may not cover expensive treatment fully.

Can private dentists charge whatever they want?

Private dentists set their own fees, but they still have professional duties. Dental professionals in the UK are regulated by the General Dental Council, and dental providers in England are regulated by the Care Quality Commission.

Patients should be given clear information about costs, options and consent before treatment. Advertising should also be accurate and not misleading. You can read more from the General Dental Council.

When is private dentistry worth it?

Private dentistry may be worth it if:

• You cannot access NHS care and need treatment.
• You want a treatment that is not available on the NHS.
• You want more choice over materials or appearance.
• You need faster appointments.
• You want cosmetic treatment such as whitening, bonding or veneers.
• You need implant treatment.
• You want specialist or referral-level treatment.
• You value longer appointments and more detailed planning.

Private dentistry may not be worth it if you are being rushed into treatment, do not understand the quote, have not been offered alternatives, or could receive appropriate NHS care at a much lower cost.

When should you get a second opinion?

Consider a second opinion if:

• The treatment is expensive.
• You have been told you need many crowns, veneers or implants.
• You feel pressured.
• The dentist has not explained alternatives.
• The quote is unclear.
• You are unsure whether teeth can be saved.
• You are considering extracting teeth for cosmetic reasons.
• You are thinking about travelling abroad for treatment.

A second opinion is especially sensible before irreversible treatment on healthy teeth.

Red flags in private dental pricing

Be cautious if:

• The clinic refuses to give a written treatment plan.
• The quote is vague.
• You are not told what is included.
• You are pushed to pay a deposit immediately.
• The clinic recommends lots of treatment without explaining why.
• You are not offered alternatives.
• Risks are not discussed.
• The clinic promises perfect or permanent results.
• Before-and-after photos look unrealistic or heavily edited.
• There is no clear aftercare policy.

How to reduce private dental costs safely

You may be able to reduce costs without compromising safety by:

• Getting a clear diagnosis before treatment.
• Asking whether there is an NHS option.
• Comparing quotes from reputable clinics.
• Choosing necessary treatment before cosmetic upgrades.
• Using a dental plan if it fits your needs.
• Spreading treatment over time where clinically safe.
• Maintaining regular check-ups to avoid bigger problems later.
• Improving oral hygiene to reduce future treatment needs.
• Asking whether simpler alternatives are suitable.

Avoid cutting costs by choosing unqualified providers, unsafe whitening, rushed cosmetic work or unclear overseas treatment plans.

Private dentistry abroad: cheaper, but not always simpler

Some UK patients travel abroad for lower-cost veneers, crowns, implants or full-mouth treatment. Prices may be lower, but the risks can be higher if planning is rushed or aftercare is difficult.

Before travelling abroad, ask:

• What exactly is being done: veneers, crowns, implants or extractions?
• How much natural tooth will be removed?
• Who will provide aftercare in the UK?
• What happens if something fails?
• Will a UK dentist be able to repair or maintain the work?
• Are scans, temporary teeth and reviews included?
• What legal protection do you have?

Cheaper treatment can become expensive if complications, travel, repairs or replacement work are needed later.

How to choose a private dentist

When choosing a private dentist, look beyond price alone.

Consider:

• Is the dentist registered with the GDC?
• Is the practice registered with the CQC in England?
• Does the clinic explain fees clearly?
• Do you receive a written treatment plan?
• Are alternatives discussed?
• Are risks explained?
• Does the clinic have experience with your type of treatment?
• Is aftercare clear?
• Do reviews mention communication and trust, not just appearance?
• Do you feel comfortable asking questions?

You can browse local dental providers through All Health and Care, including our Top 10 Dentists in the UK and local pages such as Top 10 Dentists in London.

Final thoughts

Private dental prices in the UK vary widely, but a good clinic should be able to explain its fees clearly. The most important thing is not simply finding the cheapest dentist. It is understanding what you need, what your options are, what is included in the quote, and what the long-term maintenance may cost.

For routine care, NHS dentistry can be excellent value if you can access it. For cosmetic treatment, implants, advanced materials, faster access or specialist care, private dentistry may offer more choice. Either way, you should never feel rushed into treatment you do not understand.

Ask questions, get a written plan, compare like with like, and consider a second opinion before major or irreversible dental work.

For more guides, visit our Dental Health & Dentistry section.

Frequently asked questions about private dentist prices in the UK

How much does a private dentist check-up cost in the UK?

A private dental check-up commonly costs around £40 to £150+. New patient consultations are often more expensive than routine reviews because they involve more assessment and treatment planning.

How much does a private hygienist appointment cost?

Private hygienist appointments often cost around £60 to £150+. The cost depends on appointment length, gum health, stain removal and whether additional treatments such as airflow polishing are included.

How much does a private filling cost?

Private fillings often cost around £100 to £350+. Small fillings are usually cheaper than large back-tooth white fillings.

How much does a private root canal cost?

Private root canal treatment often costs around £300 to £600+ for a front tooth, £400 to £800+ for a premolar and £600 to £1,100+ for a molar. Specialist treatment can cost more.

How much does a private crown cost?

Private crowns commonly cost around £500 to £1,200+ per tooth. The price depends on material, laboratory work, tooth condition and cosmetic requirements.

How much does a private tooth extraction cost?

A simple private extraction often costs around £100 to £350+. Surgical extractions, impacted teeth and wisdom teeth can cost more.

How much does emergency private dental care cost?

A private emergency appointment often costs around £60 to £200+ before treatment. X-rays, temporary fillings, extractions or prescriptions may cost extra.

How much do dental implants cost privately?

A single dental implant with crown commonly costs around £2,000 to £3,500+ in the UK. Bone grafting, scans and temporary teeth may increase the cost.

How much do private veneers cost?

Composite veneers often cost around £250 to £600+ per tooth. Porcelain veneers often cost around £600 to £1,200+ per tooth.

How much does composite bonding cost?

Composite bonding commonly costs around £150 to £500 per tooth, depending on the size and complexity of the cosmetic repair.

Is private dentistry better than NHS dentistry?

Not necessarily. NHS dentistry is often excellent value for clinically necessary care if you can access it. Private dentistry may offer more choice, cosmetic options, longer appointments and faster access.

Why are private dentists so expensive?

Private fees reflect appointment time, staff, materials, laboratory costs, equipment, premises, regulation, insurance and clinician training. Prices also vary by location and complexity.

Can I ask a private dentist for a written quote?

Yes. You should ask for a written treatment plan and quote before agreeing to private dental treatment, especially for complex or expensive work.

Can private dentists charge for X-rays separately?

Yes, some clinics include X-rays in the consultation fee while others charge separately. Ask before booking.

Can I mix NHS and private dental treatment?

Sometimes. Some practices offer both NHS and private care, but your dentist should clearly explain which parts are NHS and which are private, including separate costs.

Is cosmetic dentistry available on the NHS?

Purely cosmetic treatments such as whitening, veneers and cosmetic bonding are usually private. NHS dentistry focuses on clinically necessary care.

Can I spread the cost of private dental treatment?

Many clinics offer payment plans or finance for larger treatment. Check the total amount repayable, interest rate and what happens if the treatment plan changes.

Is dental insurance worth it?

Dental insurance can help with some costs, but policies vary. Check annual limits, exclusions, waiting periods and whether private treatment is fully or partly covered.

Should I get a second opinion before private treatment?

A second opinion is sensible before expensive, complex or irreversible treatment such as multiple crowns, veneers, implants or extractions.

How do I know if a private dental quote is fair?

Compare what is included, the diagnosis, materials, clinician experience, aftercare and alternatives. Do not compare price alone.

Are cheaper private dentists unsafe?

Not necessarily. A lower fee can be reasonable, especially for simple treatment. But be cautious if the quote is vague, risks are not explained, or the clinic pressures you to decide quickly.

Can I negotiate private dental prices?

Some clinics may offer payment plans, phased treatment or alternative options, but they may not negotiate clinical fees. It is reasonable to ask about lower-cost alternatives.

What is the most expensive common dental treatment?

Dental implants, full-mouth crowns, large veneer cases and orthodontic treatment are among the most expensive common private dental treatments.

What should I do if I cannot afford private dental treatment?

Ask whether there is an NHS option, whether treatment can be phased, whether there is a simpler alternative, or whether a second opinion is appropriate. Do not ignore urgent symptoms such as swelling, severe pain or infection.

How do I choose a private dentist?

Look for clear pricing, GDC registration, CQC registration in England, good communication, written treatment plans, realistic expectations and no pressure to commit immediately.